Next Stop, Graduation

By Jania Jones Editor

As a prospective Spring 2022 graduate, you’ve likely had a unique college experience to any other HCC alum. Not only did you start your college journey online, learning virtually, but you started in the midst of a literal pandemic. Props to you for that! While you’ve worked meticulously over the last four semesters to ensure you are ready to graduate, there are additional steps you can take to ensure your utmost success in the coming months.

It is likely that many family members, friends, and mentors are giving input on what your next steps should be in preparation for this big moment, and what life will be like after it but the most important thing is that you decide what will be best for you without becoming stressed out. As a student it is important that you take advice and help from others, but you should also maintain curiosity and identity over what you do. The Academic Support Center (ASC) is a great place to get help with work and find yourself from growing around what you are learning.

Andrew Pelletier, the Interim Director of the Academic Support Center here at HCC recommends that, “...I always advise students to make tutoring a proactive rather than reactive practice. It is better to come for tutoring early in the semester to prepare… It’s good to develop a habit of going to tutoring and develop relationships with tutors so students know when tutoring is available and with whom.” As Pelletier goes on to explain, creating this system of getting assistance will make it seem like less of a chore when done consistently and ultimately help you prepare for the long run. Relationships like these also prove to be beneficial in more ways than one. Not only will you gain assistance on your academic endeavors, but you may also create new paths for networking and professional growth.

Moreover, it is also really important that you check in with your advisors to ensure that you are on track with your course requirements and are enrolled in your target classes. While having access to DegreeWorks regularly is also important, this

check-in session with your advisor gives you the opportunity to also voice any concerns you have about your progress and about what else you need to get completed. Your advisor can easily become the key point person for all academic and social emotional needs. While they are not experts in every field, they can direct you to people that can be of assistance and help reduce any unnecessary stress. If also working with smaller levels of stress, you can try journaling or meditating to reduce any unnecessary stress. “When you are feeling overwhelmed by the amount and complexity of university work, one of the best ways to reduce stress and improve productivity is to start managing your time properly. Planning each day and prioritising tasks in order of deadline and importance will help you get through the mound of work you have to do,” recommends Rebecca Miller, a student services advisor from Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash Inspiring Interns. Having a system in place early will be the best thing you can do to ensure time management, and the necessary assistance won’t be a hassle at the last minute. Once you feel secure in your courses, it’s time to think about what life after graduation will look like. Whether you plan to transfer or pursue a career under that major, there are plenty of options available. In terms of Being prepared and learning about the dangers finding different career paths, Josh Moody, can help students and staff take the necessary precautions to be alert and stay safe on and off campus. a career and business journalist from the U.S. News, advises that “Students should identify skills and chart a career path early in order to land a job after graduating from college, experts say… While times are tight, that doesn’t mean jobs aren’t out there. As with any job market, availability varies by major. Monahan points to data analytics, software engineering, health care and supply chain management as strong fields now.” On the other hand, if you are looking to transfer, make sure to get in contact with Randy Sanders, the key contact for transfer advising, or Matthew Dunne, the Transfer Articulation Program advisor. It is easy to rekindle that sense of ‘senioritis’ as you prepare for graduation but remember to stay focused on what you’ve worked so hard on these past few years. With the right determination, support, and preparation, this semester will be a breeze for you! See you at commencement!